SIKESTON -- Local law enforcement is warning business owners of a scam possibly targeting the Sikeston area.
Two local businesses became aware of this recent phishing scam when they received a call from a subject stating their account was delinquent and asked for payment, according to a Capt. Jim McMillen, Sikeston Department of Public Safety public information officer. The businesses stated they knew their accounts were not delinquent and called Sikeston DPS to report the incident.
According to McMillen, "phishing" is a term used to describe people attempting to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, account numbers, social security numbers, birth dates, pin numbers and other sensitive debit or card details.
A criminal will pretend to be part of a trustworthy entity like a bank or fictitious utility company (in this case) or other bogus entity, he said. They then attempt to obtain personal or financial information over the phone or through a computer or smart phone. The information can be used to steal money from an individual or business account and/or steal a person's identity.
"As a reminder, do not release any personal, credit card or banking information without verifying the recipient. If you are uncertain, hang up and call the company yourself. This way you can know for sure who you are talking to. Should you receive a call from anyone asking for this information, simply hang up," McMillen emphasized.
The officer urged individuals or business owners who have already given this information out over the phone to call their bank or financial institution immediately.
"They will work with you in changing your account information so you will not fall victim to fraud. If you are a victim of fraud, then you need to report it to your bank and then contact your local police agency," McMillen said.
However, he added, it is not necessary to contact police unless a victim of fraud.